State Senator Huntley Urges Dads to Visit the Doc

In recognition of Father's Day and Men's Health Week, Senator Shirley Huntley is urging New York dads to take care of themselves by going for regular physical exams.

"Between the demands of work, caring for loved ones, and the constant upkeep of cars and home, many dads put off getting an annual checkup," Huntley said in a June 13 press release. "This year, the greatest gift we can give our fathers - and all the men in our lives who have acted as father figures - is to make their health and safety a top priority."

Common health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes - also known as silent killers - can damage the body for years before symptoms appear. Regular examinations increase the chances of detecting these treatable problems before they escalate into serious health risks.

"Taking the time for routine preventative care is part of being a family man," Huntley said. "It's something you do for those who would be shattered to lose you."

Huntley urges the uninsured members of the community to seek the healthcare services provided at New York's community health centers, which offer care for little or no cost.

To locate a nearby health center, visit the Community Health Care Association of New York State's website at www.chcanys.org and type "locate a community health center" in the search field at the top right of the page.

Huntley reflects on her own father when delivering this message.

"The most valuable lessons I learned from my father were the ones he never actually tried to teach me - he simply lived them. With this in mind, I urge men who act as father figures to get into the habit of seeking medical advice."